What's behind Iraqi PM's China visit?
- By Zhang Jingwei
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E-mail China.org.cn, December 30, 2015
Analysts said Iraq's intimacy with China may be the result of disappointing relations with the United States.
On one hand, Iraq not only needs to combat terrorism for national peace and stability but also needs to defend its sovereignty and independence. On the other hand, national reconstruction should be high on the agenda in its future development. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, with the world's second largest economy and a genuine promoter of the "Belt and Road" initiative, China is a country that Iraq has deemed essential to their national peace and reconstruction projects, capitalizing on the powerhouse's capital and production capacity.
China is not interested in the geopolitical game in the Middle East, and has even chosen not to use direct military force againstthe rampant IS. The country has long been committed to a diplomatic policy of peaceful co-existence that underlines non-interference in each other's internal affairs. However, as China's major energy supplier, the Middle East directly affects China's energy security. Moreover, the region is also along China's much-touted "Belt and Road" initiative, making its wellbeing highly beneficial to China's fundamental interests.
Analysts have said China may become involved in the geopolitical game given its increasing might. For example, the Syrian Bashar al-Assad regime, which is under pressure from Western countries and Sunni Muslim nations, may seek China's help in the United Nations.
Some experts even predict that China's involvement in this regional affair may relieve U.S. pressure aimed at rebalancing the Asia Pacific Region.
As a global force, China may find itself finally modifying its diplomatic policy out of international obligations, responsibilities and interest. However, its strategic relationship with Iraq doesn't necessarily represent a fine-tuning of its Middle East policy. After all, getting involved in these troubled waters does not fit in its core interests.
Zhang Jingwei is a researcher of the Charhar Institute.
The article was translated by Guo Yiming. Its original version was first published in Chinese.
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
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